WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD NEWS) — The farm bill is taking a step to recognize one of Congress’s longtime advocates for agricultural education, renaming a key scholarship program that supports students at historically Black land-grant universities.
The Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026 passed out of committee with an amendment to rename the 1890 National Scholars Program in honor of David Scott.
The amendment was introduced by House Agriculture Committee Chairman Glenn “GT” Thompson, who said the change reflects Scott’s long-standing commitment to the program and the students it serves.
“Empowering the next generation of agricultural leaders is a critical part of the farm bill, and I am proud to support the 1890 scholarship program,” Thompson said. “There has been no greater champion of this scholarship program than Rep. David Scott… It was only right to introduce an amendment to rename this important scholarship program after Mr. Scott, its most steadfast advocate in Congress.”
The amendment was widely supported and approved by voice vote.
Georgia Congressman Austin Scott also voiced support, calling the move a fitting tribute to Scott’s work on behalf of historically Black colleges and universities.
“Chairman David Scott has been a longtime friend and colleague,” he said. “Naming the 1890 Scholarship Program after Chairman David Scott not only honors his years of service, but cements his legacy as a champion of HBCUs in Congress.”
The 1890 institutions were established under the Second Morrill Act of 1890 and include 19 historically Black land-grant universities across the country. The scholarship program has played a key role in training and supporting future leaders in agriculture.
Under the proposed legislation, the program will officially be renamed the David A. Scott Scholarship Program for Students at 1890 Institutions, continuing its mission while honoring the lawmaker who helped shape it.
